The Great Ocean Road, a beautiful stretch of road along Victoria’s south coast, has some of the most amazing coastal views in Australia. This famous route is known for its views, natural wonders and coastal towns. It’s a camper’s paradise with many camping spots to base yourself to explore this beautiful region. Whether you’re going for a short camping trip or the Great Ocean Road tour 2 day adventure, this destination has something for everyone – from quiet bush campsites to busy holiday parks with all the amenities. This guide will take you through the best camping spots, things to do and tips for your camping holiday.
Why Camp the Great Ocean Road?
Camping along the Great Ocean Road is like no other. You have access to beautiful beaches, rugged coastline and rainforests and you can choose from many camping spots to suit your needs and preferences. From unpowered bush campsites to luxury camping with hot showers and modern amenities there’s something for every type of camper. Being close to famous landmarks like the Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge and the beautiful landscapes of Cape Otway makes camping along this stretch of road a must do for nature enthusiasts.
Top Campgrounds on the Great Ocean Road
The Great Ocean Road has many campgrounds, each with their own character and views. Here are the top ones to check out:
Aire River East and West Campgrounds
In the heart of the Great Otway National Park, these campgrounds are along the tranquil Aire River. Surrounded by bush and wildlife, perfect for those who want to walk the park’s walking trails, like the Aire River Escarpment Walk which has great views of the surrounding landscape.
Johanna Beach Campground
Behind the sand dunes, Johanna Beach Campground is a favourite among surfers and nature lovers. The camping ground has unpowered sites with direct beach access, perfect for those who want to be right on the coast. Also great for fishing and birdwatching with plenty of space between campers for privacy and peace.
Blanket Bay Campground
This beautiful campground is right on the coast within the Great Otway National Park. It’s known for its views and easy access to the Great Ocean Walk. Grassy sites, stunning views and koalas in the trees nearby, it’s a must do for those who want a peaceful nature experience.
Cumberland River Campground
Along the Cumberland River and just a short drive from Lorne, this campground is surrounded by cliffs and waterfalls. Great for families and those who want to walk the nearby bushwalking trails. River, bush and beach access makes it a versatile spot for many outdoor activities.
Otway National Park Campgrounds
These campgrounds, including Parker Hill and Blanket Bay, are more remote. Surrounded by dense rainforest and close to coastal cliffs, they’re for those who want to get off the beaten track. Limited facilities so make sure to bring all your camping gear.
Bimbi Park
In Cape Otway, Bimbi Park has various camping options from basic sites to cozy cabins. Known as “Camping Under Koalas” it’s one of the few places where you can sleep under the watchful eyes of these cute marsupials. The park is close to the Cape Otway Lighthouse and a great base to explore the surrounding trails and beaches.
Allenvale Mill Bush Campground
This secluded spot near Lorne provides a more rustic camping experience with basic facilities including pit toilets. The campground is in the Australian bush, with walking trails to Erskine Falls and the historic Allenvale Mill site. Perfect for those who want solitude and to get back to nature.
Kennett River Campground
Between Lorne and Apollo Bay, Kennett River is famous for its wildlife – koalas, kangaroos and many bird species. The campground has powered and unpowered sites so it’s a great stopover for those walking the coastal tracks and beaches of the Great Ocean Road.
Lorne Foreshore Caravan Park
This central park in Lorne has powered and unpowered sites, cabins and luxury camping. Walking distance to Lorne town centre, beach and local attractions like Teddy’s Lookout and Lorne Pier.
Marengo Holiday Park: 1 minute from Apollo Bay, Marengo Holiday Park is right on the beach, with views and access to Marengo Reef Marine Sanctuary. Perfect for families, with camp kitchen, playground and walking trails.
Things to Do While Camping
Camping along the Great Ocean Road isn’t just about pitching a tent and looking at the view – it’s about getting involved in all the many activities that make the most of the region’s varied landscapes.
Hiking and Bushwalking
The Great Ocean Road has some of Australia’s most famous hiking trails. The Great Ocean Walk, 100km from Apollo Bay to the Twelve Apostles, has views of the coastline, ancient forests and beaches. Shorter trails like the Erskine Falls Walk and Beauchamp Falls Walk take you through rainforest to waterfalls, while the tough Parker Hill to Blanket Bay Trail rewards with ocean views.
Surf and Water Sports
With world famous surf spots like Bells Beach, the Great Ocean Road is a surfer’s paradise. Whether you’re a pro or a beginner, there are plenty of surf schools and rental shops along the coast. If surfing isn’t your thing, try kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding in the calm waters of Apollo Bay or snorkel or dive Marengo Reef.
Wildlife Watching
The region’s high biodiversity makes it a wildlife lover’s playground. Visit the Kennett River area to see koalas in the wild or head to the Twelve Apostles Marine National Park to see fur seals and dolphins. Birdwatchers will love the variety of species in the wetlands around Aireys Inlet and the forests of the Otways.
Stargazing
Away from the city lights, the campgrounds along the Great Ocean Road are some of the best places in Victoria to stargaze. On clear nights the Milky Way is visible and you might even see a shooting star. Aire River and Blanket Bay are the perfect spot to spend a night under the stars.
Mountain Biking
For two wheelers, the Otway region has some of the best mountain biking trails in Victoria. The Forrest Mountain Bike Trails, in the heart of the Otways, have over 60km of trails from easy loops to challenging descents. Whether you’re an experienced rider or just starting out, there’s a trail for every level.
Waterfalls
The Otway Ranges have many waterfalls, several of which are within walking distance of the campgrounds. Stevensons Falls, Hopetoun Falls and Beauchamp Falls are just a few of the many cascades to explore and photograph.
Iconic Landmarks
No camping trip along the Great Ocean Road would be complete without visiting some of the icons. The Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge and London Bridge are must sees, with dramatic coastal views and insights into the region’s geology.
Fishing: The coastal and riverine areas of the Great Ocean Road offer great fishing. Whether you like to cast from the beach at Johanna or Aireys Inlet or try your luck in the rivers and estuaries around Apollo Bay there’s plenty to catch, snapper, bream and trout.
Food and Local Produce
Don’t forget to eat the local food. Fresh seafood in Port Campbell and local cheeses and wines in the hinterland towns.
Camping Tips and Safety
Camping along the Great Ocean Road can be great if you are prepared. Here are some tips to make your camping trip enjoyable and safe:
Preparation: Always check the weather forecast and pack accordingly. Bring enough food, water and camping gear as some sites have limited facilities. Get a camping permit where required to avoid hassle.
Leave No Trace: Take nothing with you but leave nothing behind. Take all your waste with you, use designated drop toilets or basic composting toilets and don’t disturb native wildlife.
Fire Safety: During peak season and dry months fire bans may apply. Always use designated campfires and have water or sand on hand to extinguish fires fully.
When to Camp Along the Great Ocean Road
The Great Ocean Road is open all year but each season is different.
| Season | Weather Conditions | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Warm, sunny days | Perfect for beach activities and swimming | Crowded campgrounds, high UV exposure |
| Autumn | Mild, cooler evenings | Beautiful foliage, less crowded | Variable weather, cooler nights |
| Winter | Cool, wet, windy | Fewer crowds, great for dramatic coastal views | Cold, wet conditions, limited facilities |
| Spring | Fresh, blooming flowers | Ideal for hiking and wildlife watching | Unpredictable weather, windy conditions |
Family Friendly Camping
For families there are many campgrounds along the Great Ocean Road with good facilities:
Big4 Wye River Holiday Park: Family friendly with activities for kids including a pool and playground. Just a short drive to Lorne’s beaches and walking tracks.
Apollo Bay Recreation Reserve: Located in the heart of Apollo Bay township, this campsite is close to restaurants, beach and attractions. A great base for families to explore the surrounding areas.
Marengo Holiday Park: Just outside Apollo Bay, Marengo has powered and unpowered sites with ocean views. Pet friendly so great for families with pets.
Other Camping Options
If you want to try something different from the usual camping experience:
Glamping: For those who want to enjoy nature without sacrificing comfort, glamping at Bimbi Park or Blanket Bay offers luxury camping with camp kitchens and shower facilities.
Pet Friendly Camping: Many campgrounds along the Great Ocean Road, including Marengo Holiday Park and Kennett River, are pet friendly. Check each site’s pet policy and make sure your furry friends are well behaved around wildlife and other campers.
FAQs
Are there camp sites near Apollo Bay?
Yes, there are several camp sites near Apollo Bay, Apollo Bay Recreation Reserve, Marengo Holiday Park and Bimbi Park to suit all camping styles.
What are the family friendly camping options along the Great Ocean Road?
Family friendly options are Big4 Wye River Holiday Park, Surfside Holiday Park and Lorne Foreshore Caravan Park with playgrounds, hot showers and camp kitchens.
Do I need to book a camping permit?
Some campgrounds along the Great Ocean Road, especially in national parks, require a camping permit. Best to check ahead and book to avoid disappointment.
Can I find camp sites with hot showers along the Great Ocean Road?
Yes, many holiday parks and caravan parks like Apollo Bay Holiday Park and Cumberland River Campground have hot showers and facilities.
When to camp?
Spring and autumn.